Vigneron James Smith shows a cluster of ripe grapes with some of the seeds eaten out by birds , a loss the vineyard must contend with , as it ' s located in a migratory bird path .

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recognized American Viticultural Areas . According to the 2020 Texas Wine Compendium , Texas is the fifth largest wineproducing state in the nation , with the industry bringing $ 13.1 billion to the state economy annually . Most of Texas ’ s 400-plus vineyards and wineries are in the Texas Hill Country , the third largest viticultural area in the U . S ., and a mecca for wine tourism . However , most Texas grapes are actually grown in the Texas High Plains AVA , which includes Lubbock and surrounding areas .

Chateau Wright makes its humble entrance onto this scene , with a small staff of just a couple full time employees , including Adam ’ s right-hand man , salesperson and Vigneron , James Smith . What makes it work for them is their collective dedication to the cause , as well as an ever-changing roster of visiting workers during harvest time — mostly young , adventurous types seeking to explore the world via temporary farm gigs . Adam ’ s extensive network of international friends in the industry have also lent a hand or expertise at some point .

Chateau Wright wines are offered at an ever-growing list of stores in the region and

Adam on the tractor .

can be ordered through the Chateau Wright website at chateauwright . com .

To get to the vineyard , head southwest on TX-17 for about two miles outside of Fort Davis , then pop up TX-166 , also known as the outer loop of Fort Davis , for just over six miles until you see their flag and sign . Follow Chateau Wright and their food truck , Too Hot For TABC , on Instagram for the latest updates .